Three-time championship-winning centre Tom Jervis has come out of retirement to join the Perth Wildcats for the NBL season.
Jervis played three seasons for the Wildcats from 2013 to 2016, and a fourth in 2018-19, winning titles in 2014, 2016 and 2019.
He announced his retirement after the 2018-19 campaign, but the 211cm centre has taken the opportunity to return to his home town club after centre Majok Majok suffered a season-ending achilles tendon injury in November.
"It's a pretty amazing situation, I didn't really expect to get another crack at the NBL and all of a sudden I'm sitting here in quarantine with one of my teammates," Jervis said.
"I'm expecting to play a similar role to what I have previously with the 'Cats; be a big body, run the floor, set some good screens and get guys like Bryce (Cotton), Todd (Blanchfield) and Clint (Steindl) open.
"Knowing the system really well, as well as the guys, there shouldn't be any teething issues which is a big advantage when coming in."
Between his two stints at the Wildcats, Jervis played two seasons at the Brisbane Bullets.
Over his 182-game NBL career, the 2014 rookie of the year averages 6.5 points and 4.5 rebounds per game.
"Any time you can bring a three-time championship player back to the team is exciting. He knows our system, our culture, and it should be an easy transition," Wildcats coach Trevor Gleeson said.
"He's the type of guy you want to have in the trenches with you because he gives everything to the Wildcats. We're excited Tommy's back and now we'll work to get his fitness back up."
Jervis' signing completes the Perth's 10-man roster.
The Wildcats open their season on January 24 against the South East Melbourne Phoenix at RAC Arena.
Australian Associated Press
